**TITLE: The Perfect 388**
**Chapter 388**
But no more. If Ella managed to locate those artifacts and set them ablaze, then Margaret and Richard would find themselves devoid of any leverage. It was becoming increasingly clear to me that their grand scheme revolved around the creation of undead minions, servants to execute their will, and agents to ensure that Brian remained firmly in power. Perhaps they even envisioned a legion of so-called “followers,” individuals who would stand by him no matter the atrocities he committed.
All they needed was to maintain his position. The means by which he clung to office were irrelevant.
Thus, without the artifacts in play, their entire plan was destined to fail. It would take no more than thirty seconds for the world to recognize Brian’s incompetence, and once I was liberated from this affliction, I could no longer be painted as the feeble Alpha unworthy of his title.
A sudden realization struck me, sharp and electrifying: did they understand that the curse was the source of my illness? Surely they had to, right?
The thought sent a shiver down my spine. The very idea that someone could be so depraved as to allow a rival to wither away, fully aware of the consequences, was unfathomable. It was a level of wickedness that clashed violently with the moral compass I had been raised to uphold.
At that moment, my gaze caught sight of a medic pushing through the throng of people.
Oops. Perhaps my act had been a bit too convincing after all.
“Alpha Alexander?” the medic inquired, a hint of concern in his voice. “I was informed of your illness. Could you please accompany me?”
“I’m actually fine. I feel much better—”
“You should really allow us to check you out, Alexander.” Margaret’s hand settled firmly on my arm, and she gestured toward the medic with a nod. “I believe he’s trying to downplay his condition, but he genuinely needs to be seen. Please ensure he receives the necessary care.”
Before I could voice my objections, the medic began ushering me away. I attempted to resist, but it was too late; news of my “episode” had already spread like wildfire, and curious eyes were now fixed upon me. A couple more medics arrived at the entrance, effectively blocking any chance of retreat.
I clenched my teeth in frustration and cast a glance over my shoulder just as the medics guided me out of the ballroom. Margaret’s gaze was still locked onto me, and the malicious glint in her eyes sent a chill through my core, tightening my stomach with dread.
I could see it in their eyes. The way John shot daggers at me, the way Helen clutched her pearls in distress—they were aware of our plans.
“You’re working for them,” I whispered, the disbelief barely leaving my lips.
John tightened his grip on the door handle, his knuckles turning white. “Our daughter is languishing in a prison cell. What would you do if you were in our shoes?”
“You bastards—” I sprang to my feet, but the medics promptly pushed me back down. A wave of dizziness washed over me, causing the room to spin momentarily. My performance hadn’t been entirely fabricated; I was still a sick man, and if Ella failed to destroy the artifacts… then we were truly lost.
“I’m sorry, Alexander.” Helen averted her gaze, her voice tinged with sorrow. “But family must come first.”
I didn’t get the chance to respond before they turned and left, slamming the door shut behind them with a finality that echoed in my chest.

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